The Bitcoin mining industry is not as environmentally damaging as is often assumed, and the industry is also a leader in sustainability. But that doesn’t mean everything goes smoothly. An interesting report from Time takes a deeper look into the reality of Bitcoin (BTC) mining and what it’s like for people who live near Bitcoin mining companies.
Crypto miners cause enormous trouble
Last year, a Bitcoin mining operation was set up at a power plant in Granbury, Texas. For the residents it is hell on earth. Noise pollution from mining operations is a major problem for the city’s residents.
“It’s like we’re on the runway of an airport where the planes take off. You can’t even hear someone standing ten feet away from you.
So said Cheryl Shadden, a Granbury resident who lies awake every night because of the noise from mining. People also complain of migraines and animals appear to have fled the area since the mining operation arrived. “My citizens are suffering,” a Hood County official said.
The Granbury mining facility is owned by Marathon Digital Holdings, one of the largest Bitcoin miners in the United States. The facility in the city operates 300 megawatts of mining equipment, and the deafening noise is caused by the huge fans that keep the equipment cool.
Although Marathon responded to the complaints by erecting an eight-meter-high sound barrier, this appears to have had little effect. Some people believe that this wall only amplified the sound.
Bitcoin miner responds to complaints
It’s clear that Marathon benefits from operating in Granbury, but city residents question what benefits this brings to the county itself. So far the installation has only resulted in misery and serious medical problems.
Marathon has indicated that more action will be taken to combat harassment.
“Marathon values its relationship with the communities in which we live and work, and we value the information our neighbors have provided us in recent weeks. We are currently collecting data. If there is a problem we can solve, we will do everything we can.”
As previously mentioned, the Bitcoin mining industry is becoming more sustainable and sophisticated. However, that does not change the fact that the interface between the industry and the communities in which it operates is flawless. Issues like those in Granbury must be addressed if the Bitcoin mining sector is to maintain a respectable status.